Public Affairs

Safe Driving Tips for this Week's Wet, Windy Weather

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Safe Driving Tips for this Week's Wet, Windy Weather

Phoenix. Feb. 19, 2013. With another cold front in the forecast beginning tomorrow, AAA wants to remind motorists to be prepared, and adjust their driving behavior for road conditions.

If you’re caught behind the wheel during inclement weather, adjust your driving by doing the following:

Slow down! Rain or snow and ice cause roads to get slippery.

Keep a safe distance. If you are driving in wet or snowy conditions, give yourself at least three times more space than usual between you and the car in front of you.

Brake gently to avoid skidding, and use low gears to avoid losing traction.

Do not engage your vehicle’s cruise control. Using cruise control on wet roads or during heavy rain can cause you to lose control of your vehicle.

Turn on your lights so you can see others, and they can see you.

Remember emergency maneuvers. If you start to skid, for example, don’t panic. Rather, let up on the brake or accelerator and look and steer in the direction you want the front of your vehicle to go.

For drivers who may be heading to the high country, AAA urges motorists to be equipped with winter car essentials, including:

Scraper/brush to clean ice off of your windshield. Using another object, such as a credit card or CD, could damage your auto glass.

Kitty litter, sand or scrap pieces of carpet, can help tires gain traction if stuck in snow or mud.

Jumper cables for unexpected battery failures.

Folding shovel, when paired with sand or kitty litter, can help you get unstuck.

Other tools that can help you stay safe in the event of a breakdown, including a cell phone and charger, blankets, hot packs to keep your hands and feet warm, water and non-perishable snacks.

AAA is an advocate for the safety and security of the motoring public. For more information, visit AAA.com/TrafficSafety.

AAA Arizona, the Arizona affiliate of AAA, provides automotive, insurance and travel services to more than 825,000 Arizona members. Annually, AAA’s Roadside Assistance responds to more than 450,000 calls for help on Arizona roadways. The auto club also provides insurance, travel, auto repair, discounts and financial services to AAA members. Since its founding in 1927, AAA Arizona has been a leading advocate for the safety and security of all travelers.